What area of the airport is restricted to badge holders only?

The correct answer identifies the secure areas of the airport as restricted zones that are accessible only to badge holders. These secure areas include locations like the tarmac, where aircraft operations occur, and specific parts of the terminals that require additional security measures. Access to these areas is strictly regulated to ensure safety and security within the airport environment, which is paramount in aviation.

In contrast, public terminals and waiting areas are designed for travelers and are open to the general public, therefore not requiring a badge for entry. Employee lounges and break rooms, while they may be limited to staff, do not typically fall under the official secure areas governed by access restrictions. Lastly, parking lots and transportation hubs are generally accessible to the public and do not require special credentials for entry. Thus, it is the secure areas that are the designated restricted zones for badge holders only.